Rothley Post May 2011 (88)

THE ROTHLEY POST YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

MAY/JUN 2011

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 88

Homes plan refused PLANS TO build up to 170 homes off Hallfields Lane, Rothley have been refused by Charnwood Borough Council.

Pic: some of Rothley school council strike a pose in their Red Noses

Comic Relief cash RED NOSE week at Rothley School was a great success.

“The school council were given the task of organising the fundraising events which included selling Red Noses, running a competition, having a cake sale and holding a non-uniform day” said

teacher Lydia Dixon “Everyone had such an amazing time and it was a brilliant week” she added.

Together the whole school raised £1914.26

Giant turbine will be built

Get involved „ Send your stories... „ Send your pics... editor@birstallpost.co.uk

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PLANS FOR an 80 metre wind turbine on the edge of Rothley have been approved.

Charnwood Borough Council refused Severn Trent’s planning application in 2010 but in March a Planning Inspector considered an appeal and ruled in favour of Severn Trent.

The wind turbine will be located within the grounds of the Severn Trent water treatment works in Wanlip and will meet the energy demands of the facility.

The turbine will have an 80 metre mast and a blade tip height of 132 metres, the same height as the London Eye. It will be one of the largest onshore wind turbines in the country.

Objectors were concerned at the turbine’s visual impact, noise, shadow flicker and its impact on birds and other wildlife.

The Planning Inspector’s report recognises the negative impact of the turbine but states that: “…on balance, the benefits of the scheme are sufficient to out-

Developers Charles Church and Rothley Temple Estates wanted to demolish Brookfield Farm and build on the 6.9 hectare site. The new dwellings would have been located next to the 149 homes currently under construction off Loughborough Road.

Chairman of Rothley Parish Council Percy Hartshorn said: “This is a good decision – it’s just common sense. This development was not needed and not wanted in the village, and we couldn’t have coped.”

Around 750 letters of objection were received from residents and action group Keep Rothley Rural campaigned against the plans.

Charnwood Borough Council refused the plans because: • the site is in an area of open countryside and the development will appear “unduly visually prominent and intrusive”.

• Rothley School has insufficient capacity to meet increased demand • the local infrastructure is insufficient • the development would have a significantly detrimental affect on Rothley Conservation Area • A Section 106 package has not been agreed. This is a legal deal under which the developers pay for or provide community facilities to mitigate the impact of the development.

Planning application P/10/1886/2 at www.charnwood.gov.uk

Est.

1978

weigh the harm.”

Chairman of Rothley Parish Council Percy Hartshorn said: “ It’s too close to homes. I am disappointed with the deciContinued on page 2

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THE ROTHLEY POST

MAY 2011

Turbine continued from page 1 sion, but not really surprised.”

James Barber of nearby Woodcock Farm said: “We are disappointed with the inspector’s decision to uphold the appeal, as we feel the turbine will have a serious impact on the village from a visual perspective, and also have concerns over noise and flicker from the machine when weighed up against its siting in a low wind speed location in a river valley. There are not many turbines this big built this close to residences and it remains to be seen what benefits the scheme will bring. A smaller turbine would have had less of an impact on the locality.”

Severn Trent say the Wind turbine will become operational in 2012.

As a condition of planning permission,

Walking programme A RECORD number of free, healthy and educational walks are being offered by Charnwood Borough Council as part of its new programme of walking activities.

More than 150 walks will be staged as part of the council’s official 2011/12 activity programme which was officially launched by the Mayor of Charnwood, Jill Vincent, in Shepshed on April 11. Walks will include routes which take in Kegworth Museum, Belgrave Hall in Leicester, the Abbey Meadows Pumping Station in Leicester and even a train ride on the Great Central Railway.

For the first time Nordic walking taster sessions, which involves walking with poles to improve upper body fitness, are being offered.

The full walks brochure can be downloaded or viewed at www.charnwood.gov.uk/pages/walking forhealth

Rothley

Woodcock Farm

Proposed wind turbine location

Sewage Works

A46

A6

Wanlip

Charity mountain climb A ROTHLEY teenager is planning an epic mountain climb to raise money for charity.

Holly Whittaker (19) is currently studying Fine Art and English Literature in her first year at Aberystwyth University, and will be joining the first team from a Welsh University to undertake a charity climb up Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa, the highest free-standing mountain in the world at 5,895m.

Birstall Severn Trent are required to carry out a landscaping scheme providing habitat for wildlife, and conduct a survey of buzzard, lapwing, golden plover, teal, widgeon and bat activity. They are also required to provide Charnwood with wind speed, wind direction and power

generation data of the turbine upon request.

The planning application and the Inspector’s report can be viewed on Charnwood’s website. Planning application P/09/2402/2.

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Pic: Holly Whittaker Holly said: “I am so excited to be embarking on this challenge. I have always enjoyed hiking, so when this opportunity arose to combine this interest with such a caring charity, I simply couldn’t let the opportunity pass me by.”

The students will be doing this to raise money for a charity called Childreach International, which works in some of the world’s poorest regions to help give children a better quality of life.

Part of Holly’s trip will be to visit the charity’s projects in Tanzania so she can see first-hand how the money raised is being spent.

In order to raise funds for the charity climb, Holly has put her prize-winning artistic talent to good use by producing framed, original, contemporary artwork for sale, together with a selection of cards. Her work will be on sale at a joint Art Exhibition with Janet Brunton in the Sunday School Rooms (next to the Bradgate Park entrance) in Newtown Linford over the Easter weekend, April 23 and 24. One of her artworks (pictured) is currently on display at Templars, Rothley.

If you would like to know more about, or contribute directly to, Holly’s challenge, go to http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/HollyWh ittaker

THE ROTHLEY POST

Historic Rothley HISTORICAL POSTCARDS featuring Rothley scenes are the subject of a new book by a local author.

‘Historic Postcard Rothley, the Collected Record’ by Terry Sheppard features vintage postcards, mostly from the Barrie Pook collection, many of which are from the first years of the 20th century.

Publishers the Rothley Heritage Trust have put all the available old postcards featuring Rothley together in one volume.

The cards have been scanned at 600dpi, enlarged by 130 per cent and the village and its way of life is carefully present-

ed and described in the book’s 120 pages.

The images are presented alongside the early Ordnance Survey mapping of the period, together with stories that come from people in the original photographs, or from the details on the mes-

Pic: an expanded portion of a card featuring North Street in the 1920s

Yoga Pic: the book’s cover shows George Hutchin’s Shop on the corner of North Street and Woodgate, c1937-40

sage side of the card, which are also reproduced.

“They make interesting reading” says Terry “showing that people a hundred years ago were collecting the available cards about the place. They also reveal that Rothley was something of a resort destination, with people coming here to stay for a while.

The book launch will be at Templars Coffee Shop, Woodgate on Wednesday June 1 at 2.30pm, where Terry will be on hand to sign copies. To order a book contact Brenda Sutherland 0116 2302766 or brenda.sutherland1@ntlworld.com.

Burglars assault woman MASKED INTRUDERS forced their way into a Rothley home threatened the occupants and assaulted a woman before making off with cash and jewellery.

A similar aggravated burglary took place in Birstall on Tuesday February 22 in the Station Road area, but police are not linking the two incidents. Three masked men forcibly entered the house and demanded cash and valuables from the occupants. No one was hurt during the incident.

Anyone with any information about the Rothley incident should contact DC Kerry Deadman on 222 2222 voicemail 4442

TRY YOGA with your toddler at Birstall Village Hall this summer.

“Yoga bugs is a unique parent & toddler activity which embraces all the elements of a hatha yoga class and much more” sayd Sam Chamberlain, Physical Activity Development Officer at Charnwood Borough Council.

“Classes are introduced through story telling and magical adventures that will inspire your child’s imagination while have a whole lot of fun.

Each class will involve a warm up, posture, relaxation and visulalisation work all in a safe environment. Long term benefits include stronger sense of self exteem, respect for one another and values of a healthy lifestyle.”

If you want to come along and have a go, sessions start every Thursday starting May 19-July 21, with no session on June 9 & July 7, at Birstall Village Hall, 1l.30-2.30pm. Classes cost £1.50 per adult. Wear loose clothing.

Booking advised – for more questions or to book please contact the Active Together team on 01509 632534 or alternatively email: active.together@charnwood.gov.uk

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The incident happened in the Westfield Lane area at 9pm on Monday March 7, when the 39 year old victim and her two young children heard a loud smashing sound at the back of the house.

Four men had smashed a window and entered her home. Once inside the men, all wearing balaclavas, threatened the woman and her children, demanding that she hand over any cash she had.

When she told them that she did not have any, she was assaulted.

The men then searched various rooms before leaving with a large quantity of cash and jewellery. All four men were then seen running towards Swithland Lane and then turning back and running past the house again.

The woman was taken to Leicester Royal Infirmary for treatment to a head injury, and later discharged.

Detective Constable Kerry Deadman, the investigating officer, said: “Thankfully the victim was not seriously injured. The ordeal is not something that she or her children will easily forget and the events of that night were extremely upsetting for them.

“We have spoken to people in the area but we are still looking for more information that will lead us to those men. I am appealing to anyone who thinks they know who was responsible to call us immediately. If you live in Rothley you may have spotted a group of men acting suspiciously? Or perhaps you saw the men running along the street at approximately 9.30pm that evening?

“I would like to reassure members of the public in Rothley that incidents like this are extremely rare and we are taking it very seriously. Any information you have about this incident, no matter how small or insignificant it seems, could help us. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch.”

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MAY 2011

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THE ROTHLEY POST

MAY 2011

Local gardens open

Councils work together on plan

GARDENS IN Thurcaston and Cropston will be opened to the public in June.

The Open Gardens event organised by the Richard Hill School PTA will this year take place on Saturday June 25 and Sunday June 26.

Spokeswoman Linda Bennett said: “As usual there will be a number of gardens open across the two villages of various types – small, large, wild and tidy!”

Gardens will be open from 2-6pm, tickets will be £4 each with accompanied children and wheelchair users free.

Tickets are valid for both days and are available on the day from any of the

ROTHLEY AND MOUNTSORREL Parish Councils have been working together to develop a co-ordinated approach to new development. open gardens or can be bought up to two weeks in advance from the Richard Hill School office, Mon-Fri, 9am-3pm.

Proceeds from the weekend will go to the School’s PTA funds which help pay for a number of things around the school including playground markings, new books and equipment for the

school garden and after school clubs.

The organisers are still looking for more gardens: if you would like to open yours, or for more information about this event please contact Linda on 0116 2363872 or email richardhillpta@aol.com.

You can also get information from the new website www.tcog.org.uk

School’s conga for coins RICHARD HILL CE Primary School, Thurcaston staged a whole school ‘conga for coins’ in support of Comic Relief on Red Nose Day. Children, staff and parents all joined the conga which was led by Head Teacher, Mrs Coleen Shepherd who managed to manoeuvre her way around the playground with great finesse, followed by her entourage!

Staff and pupils also dressed up for the day, with lots of wacky and very red outfits. Children and staff could be seen

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the playground, en route.

Some children also made Red Nose in silly hats, wigs, wearing odd shoes cakes and sold them at break time. and even pyjamas, all in the name of “They were very yummy” said Deputy donations. Parents were not only encour- Headteacher, Miss Rachel Hames. aged to join in but also to throw their The school raised £271.66 for Comic loose change into the buckets around Relief.

The two parish councils have met five times over the last six months after Mountsorrel Parish Council approached Rothley for a meeting.

The meetings, which have all been attended by planning consultant Will Antill, aim to address issues of common concern to both parishes: new housing and employment development, changes to roads and other local infrastructure.

Chairman of Mountsorrel Parish Council Brian Allard said: “The meetings have been very amicable and they have been productive. They will continue on an ad hoc basis, as and when required. The intention now is to produce a neighbourhood plan, as so many infrastructure issues are shared by the villages.”

Chairman of Rothley Parish Council Percy Hartshorn said: “Working together will bring benefits as Mountsorrel will support Rothley and vice versa – it will give us more clout.

Both villages have had enough development and we do not want any more until at least 2016, we should let things settle down and let the infrastructure catch up.”

He added: “We will have some growth in the two villages in the future and we will work together to work out where the best sites are.”

The two parish councils now intend to produce a Neighbourhood Plan, a feature of the government’s new Localism Bill which has yet to become law. It sets out areas for growth within the two parishes. Cllr Hartshorn and Cllr Allard have met with Charnwood’s Head of Development Steve Lewis-Roberts to discuss the Neighbourhood Plan. It was agreed that once the plan is finalised and has gone out for public consultation, it would be adopted by Charnwood as part of the Local Development Framework.

THE ROTHLEY POST

Rothley a part of archive A NEW website containing a free digital archive of images, maps and sound recordings, videos and other documents relating to the history of Leicestershire has been launched. www.myleicestershire.org.uk is a collaborative effort between Leicester University, the East Midlands Oral History Archive and a number of local history organisations.

Rothley’s Heritage Warden Terry Sheppard explains how Rothley Heritage Trust became involved: “We were invited to contribute to this new online archive and were loaned a very high-specification scanner to assist with the task. Barrie Pook, of Pooks Motor Books in Fowke Street allowed the Trust to scan and upload his large bundle of vintage postcards of Rothley. It is now possible to see on this website a dazzling summary of what life was like in Rothley a hundred years ago, as told through the postcard images. Then a descendant of the Sleath family of house builders brought out his treasure file for us to scan. They included an amazing image of an early Richard Sleath in 1910 with his Bradbury Motor Cycle, and the sale catalogue of the portfolio of local houses originally built for investment by founder Frank Sleath. Visitors to the Trust’s collection on the web can now see old Rothley mapping starting with transcriptions of the 1780 enclosure maps, the 1842 estate map prepared after the death of the last Babington, Thomas, in 1837, and concluding with the complete and very detailed 17 pages of the 1893 Temple

Estate Sale Catalogue. All 230 pages of the Churchwardens’ Account Book 17501887 have been digitised and are now preserved in this online archive free from decay.

tion on the doorstep, Merttens fell in with a growing national movement for developing garden suburbs. By 1910 Merttens had installed a young modern architect George E Clare, MSA, in a house on Swithland Lane as the face of his Garden Suburb dream. Clare produced a string of designs for prospective buyers, who incorporated a chosen de-

MAY 2011

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1979, and the East Midlands Oral History Archive has digitised many of its interviews with Leicester people. They discuss their lives in Leicester and elsewhere between 1900 and 1950. With a computer, all of these can be viewed or listened to.

“A very valuable addition to the digital archive for all to view are the digital versions of old cine films from the collection of the Media Archive for Central England. Two of the films feature The Leicestershire Yeomanry of 1938 at camp and on parade in Loughborough.

Leicestershire’s Industrial History Society has a fine collection of books and images.

A truly wonderful set of images is Vanished Leicester, running to 1,036 items, being the lifetime collection of retired Architect Dennis Calow, who now lives in Rothley. They feature photographs of many of the buildings that have sprung up in the city and then been demolished as progress marched on. The great usefulness of this archive is its very powerful search facility. Putting in a name, or a street, or a business brings up all manner of occurrences of the items searched for.”

Pic: Richard Sleath Senior in 1910 on a vintage Bradbury motorcycle. He was working in the family building firm under the founder Frank Sleath, and is parked in front of one of the Sleath site cabins.

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THE ROTHLEY POST “The final and exciting piece of work has been the opportunity to scan and upload a selection of the earliest architectural plans for the development of the Rothley Garden Suburb. When Manchester Cotton Merchant Frederick Merttens bought the Temple Estate in the 1893 sale he first of all put the old manor house and chapel, now the Rothley Court Hotel, into good order and with extensions. Eventually, and with the coming of the Great Central Railway’s Rothley Sta-

sign into plots along Swithland Lane. The designs are great examples of the arts and craft movement ideas. The business model was for two sets of plans to be produced for Merttens’ approval. The Merttens’ signed copy was kept in his Rothley Temple Estates Office in a plan chest. That plan chest has survived from 1910, with many of the plans inside it. It has been the immense privilege of the Rothley Heritage Trust to have had access to these plans and to have scanned and uploaded some of them to this new online archive. The full garden suburb idea did not develop in Rothley, but Merttens did lay out a golf course and found a golf club in 1911, 100 years ago this year, and a photograph of the official opening of the Club in 1912 is featured in the online archive.”

The archive contains several other collections and continues to grow.

‘Ghost Signs of Leicestershire’ is a collection of photographs of hand painted advertisements that have been preserved on a building for a prolonged period of time.

Terry says: “Radio Leicester has uploaded an especially interesting set of the programmes it made between 1950 and

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Training award THE WAY Charnwood Borough Council trains its councillors has been recognised with a major award.

The Council achieved the East Midlands Member Development Charter Award following a rigorous assessment of Charnwood’s training and development procedures for councillors.

Charnwood Borough Council is now just one of only a handful of local authorities in the region to have achieved the Award. David Dalby, Charnwood Borough Council’s Head of Democratic Services, said: “It’s great to be recognised with this award.

Charnwood Borough Council is a multi-million pound organisation and councillors make important decisions that affect the lives of everyone in the area, I think the public would therefore expect them to receive adequate training, especially in finance, planning and licensing. New councillors in particular face a steep learning curve and we aim to give them the best possible start.”

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THE ROTHLEY POST

MAY 2011

Chart topper THE QUIET village of Thurcaston isn’t known for spawning chart-topping musicians, but then Jerry Smith – aka The International – isn’t your average rock star.

40-something Jerry writes, plays and produces the tracks in his spare time when not involved in his main occupation as a director of an international schoolwear company.

The EP ‘I Travel’, written and recorded in his home studio has just produced both number one and two hits (Man in Milan and Qatar) in the Soundlift Independent Music Charts.

Jerry said: “At the moment the songs are based solely on what I do which is travel – a lot. However I am not sure it will end up as a concept album. On the other hand I have songs called Pic: musician Jerry Smith Barcelona and Alaska in the can, with another song Libya being constructed. Libya came about because of work. I know various people over there and I was quite concerned about their safety.

“I have also had requests to appear at several venues in Europe. The great thing about Soundlift is that other bands/artists in the charts listen to your music and ask you to appear at whatever gig they are doing. So going forward, I am also looking to get a band together.”

Go to soundlift.com, and put The International in the search box

New tearoom opens Old songs A NEW tearoom has opened at a Rothley plant nursery.

The Rose Garden Tearoom at Brooklea Nursery on Loughborough Road is run by Rosalind Bugg. “I aim to provide quality dishes at affordable prices, a high class personal service and an elegant traditional tearoom within a pretty garden nursery setting” said Rosalind.

She added: “There are a range of breakfast options with a choice of topped warm muffins being a favourite, light lunches include steaming jacket potatoes with a

variety of fillings, home made soups, baguettes and a freshly prepared range of salads.

“Afternoon teas are also available with cream teas, delicately cut sandwiches and a lovely range of tempting cakes and patisserie slices.”

There is a children’s menu and high chairs are provided. Special menus are planned for Easter week and Royal Garden Party week.

The Rose Garden Tearoom is open 9.30am-2pm Mon-Tue, 9.30am-5pm Wed-Sat and 10-4 on Sundays Pictured left: Rosalind Bugg

‘NOSH & NOSTALGIA’ is the title of a forthcoming event at the Rothley Centre on May 17.

The event, which takes the form of a Fish & Chip supper followed by songs of a past era, is in celebration of the 90th Anniversary of the British Legion with all profits going to the RBL Battle Back Challenge Centre charity for wounded and traumatised troops back from Afghanistan.

After the meal there will be a rousing sing-along session with ‘Songs the Solders Sang’, Vera Lynn Classics, and songs from ‘Old Time Music Hall’.

Anyone not singing can do the washing up. The evening is specially designed for the over 60s although everyone is very welcome.

The event will have a 1900 hrs start and tickets at £7.50 each for RBL members and partners and £10 for non members are available on a first come, first served basis from John Leake on 0116 230 3858.

From Norman Pratt

NHW news & crime report THERE WERE four separate thefts of metal from the Great Central Railway sidings during February.

Copper piping was stolen from railway carriages. On February 24 persons were disturbed by on-site security and the police attended, including air support, but a search could not locate any offenders. A white transit van parked unattended nearby was seized by police.

Residents are urged to report any suspicious activity near the GCR to the police.

A local man and woman have received custodial sentences after pleading guilty to a burglary in September 2010

on Mountsorrel Lane. The male received three years and the female 12 months suspended for two years.

Two males were arrested and charged with the theft of two motorcycles that were stolen in March from Babington Road, Rothley and Main Street, Swithland. Both motorcycles were recovered.

The current police priorities are: • to tackle the issue of theft from the allotments on Loughborough Road, Rothley between 6pm-8am • antisocial vehicle use and criminal

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damage on Fowke Street and Woodgate, Rothley between 5pm-3am • road safety around Rothley, Thurcaston, Swithland and Newtown Linford primary schools, 8-10am and 2.304.30pm, Mon-Fri Crime Report, Rothley, Feb 1 – March 31 Burglary 1, burglary non-dwelling 3, theft from motor vehicle 3, theft of motor vehicle 3, theft 2 Crime Report, Thurcaston & Cropston Feb 1-March 31 Drugs 1, theft of vehicle 1, burglary nondwelling 1, theft 2, damage 1 From PC 544 Steve Rhodes and PCSO 6647 Nigel Ritchie Call 222 2222 to leave a message

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Richard Hill’s Church of England School Charity The Trustees of the Charity invite those under age 25 years who are attending or have attended the Richard Hill School to apply for a Grant to assist with educational activities (including social and physical training) not otherwise provided by the Local Authority.

Applications should be made to the Clerk, Mrs. Ann Stringer, email rhillcharitytrustees@mypostoffice.co.uk or tel. 0116 234 0625 before the end of June for consideration during the month of July. Grants ranging from £100 to £1,000 will be awarded to applicants who meet the necessary criteria.

THE ROTHLEY POST

Parking CHARNWOOD BOROUGH Council have joined forces with the RNIB and the Police to combat the problem of pavement parking.

They are inviting residents to report cases of obstruction on 01509 634564 or email cleaner.greener@charnwood.gov.uk A car parked on pavement can cause problems for the elderly, partially sighted, blind, wheelchair users and parents with pushchairs. Some discretion is allowed but motorists must leave enough room for a double buggy to pass on the pavement, or risk a fine.

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Speedway racers’ visit SPEEDWAY RETURNED to Leicester this April after a 28 year absence and children at Richard Hill CE Primary School, Thurcaston were the first school in the county to have the opportunity to see and hear all about its return.

Norman Hunter, ex-rider and Ambassador for Leicester Speedway and Ken Naylor, Co-promotor of the Lions, visited Richard Hill School with their bikes.

“We are hoping to visit lots of schools, to show the children how exciting the sport can be, but Richard Hill is our first” said Norman.

Children were able to sit on a speedway bike and try on some of the protective clothing the riders wear during racing. They were also able to ask questions about the sport and learn about

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Pic: children from Bethlehem during their last visit to Rothley

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Dancers’ return visit A BARN dance will be raising funds to pay for a return visit to Rothley by a group of young folk dancers from Bethlehem.

“Two years ago the group was given a warm welcome by the school and the community” said Ursula Greaves of the Leicester Friends of Bethlehem, who organised the visit.

A group of 15 young people, aged 12-15 and from the Ghirass Centre in Bethlehem, visited in 2009. They stayed with host families in Leicester and visited schools where they performed and held workshops.

Ursula said: “The group, accompanied by pupils from the school, visited historic Rothley Court and Terry Sheppard, a member of Rothley Heritage Trust, was on hand to give them a conducted tour. The group was also welcomed into the parish church by the vicar, Rob Gladstone, and the school provided a lunch and special celebratory cake in the church rooms. In the afternoon, it was the dancers’ turn to show off their

MAY 2011

traditional dances to the rest of the school.”

She added: “Funds now need to be raised before another group can be brought over to Leicester and what better way to do that than to have a community Barn Dance? Saturday evening, May 21 is the date and hopefully we will see Rothley school half full to capacity with dancers of all ages.

“This is a chance for everyone in the community, not just families from the school, to get together and enjoy our own dance traditions. Even if you have never been to a barn dance before, rest assured that everything will be explained before each dance. Tickets are £5, children £3, family ticket also available.

Price includes a ploughman’s supper.

Phone 0116 230 3500 for tickets or more information.

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the aspects of safety for both riders and spectators.

“The bikes are cool, they go really fast” said one year 6 pupil, after watching a clip of some racing. “I had never heard of speedway, I want to go!” enthused another.

While most of the children have never seen or heard of speedway as a sport, some of their parents or grandparents may have visited the Parker Drive stadium when they were younger.

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8

THE ROTHLEY POST

MAY 2011

Parish Council notes Busy Rothley week

A FULL meeting of Rothley Parish Council was held on February 21.

Before the meeting three representatives from Rothley Youth Project undertaking their Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme presented their plan to reinstate a paved area next to the Fowke Street youth cabin and to erect a brick and concrete picnic table and seating. Councillors welcomed the proposal.

The Council agreed to spend £10,000 on resurfacing the tarmacced area of the Rothley Centre car park, which has broken up. Car parking bays will be marked out.

It was reported that the Hallfields Lane development’s balancing pond had been completed.

Councillors agreed to a request to bring a small funfair to Rothley on the condition that it was during the school holiday period and finished at 9pm.

It was reported that Rothley Youth Project is in talks with Rothley Imps Junior FC to transfer ownership of the youth cabin to the club for use as a clubhouse. The building would still be available as a youth club. The current youth club membership has largely outgrown the club. The opportunity exists for a new group of volunteers to start

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afresh with a youth club aimed at younger teenagers, using the residual funds left once ownership of the building is transferred. The Parish Council agreed in principle to the transfer of ownership.

A full meeting of Rothley Parish Council was held on March 21.

It was reported that two chickens and a chicken coop had been stolen from the Loughborough Road allotments.

PC Steve Rhodes reported that he has been conducting speed checks in the village. The fastest speed recorded on Woodgate was 32mph.

Cllr Doug Sutherland reported on the state of the grade 1 listed Rothley Court chapel which was in a poor state of repair. It has been the subject of an inspection by Charnwood’s Conservation and Design team, Rothley Heritage Trust and the owners, Greene King, to review what work is needed to protect the building.

It was reported that Rothley Youth Group will continue until the end of the summer term.

A FULL meeting of Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council was held on February 17.

A request has been made that the Highways Authority put salt bins on Wallis Close, Thurcaston and on or near the junction of Leicester Road/Station Road, Cropston. Additional gritting has been requested for the junction of Causeway Lane/Cropston Road/Reservoir Road, Cropston.

The Council agreed to request that the Early Learning Pre-School do not use the frontage of the Memorial Hall as a play area or take hall furniture outside, for health and safety reasons.

The council agreed to fit a new kitchen water heater in the Memorial Hall costing £954, and to fit new UPVC skirting in the kitchen costing £185.

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THE RECENT More2Life week in Rothley is being hailed a success after more than 1,500 people attended at least one or more of over 30 events.

A team of eight trainee vicars from Wycliffe Hall in Oxford helped run each of the events, organised

by Rothley Parish Church as part of their training. Afternoons and evenings were full of a variety of different activities and the local village

school had daily input from the visitors.

Highlights from the week included: over 100 enthusiastic singers joining in the ‘Singing for fun’ event; 80 sporting aficionados taking part in the ‘Question of Sport’ won by Cropston Cricket Club; a packed parish church listening to jazz from the ‘New Orleans Hotshots’ and an oversubscribed ‘Murder Mystery Dinner’ in the Old School Rooms.

Each event had a short talk from one of the trainee clergy, an opportunity for them to practise communicating and sharing their faith and an opportunity for those attending the events to understand more about life through Jesus Christ.

Pics (above): Cropston Cricket Club, winners of the Rothley Question of Sport 2011 & left: All that Jazz, the New Orleans Hotshots

Station scale model VISITORS TO the award winning grade II listed Rothley station can now take it home!

The model maker Bachmann has unveiled a range of scale models of the popular Great Central Railway location for OO railways.

Their Scenecraft range now includes a collection of buildings which depict Rothley station. The station was opened in 1899 as part of the Great Central Railway’s grand extension to London Marylebone. Most of the stations on the route were built to the distinctive ‘island platform’ layout.

A donation will be made to the GCR for every item sold from the new range.

“Rothley station is a particular gem on the GCR and retains virtually all of its late Victorian features” said Richard Patching, Commercial Manager of the Great Central. “Knowing that Bachmann are just about to introduce a full set of buildings for Rothley is wonderful news, not just for GCR but especially for all the visitors who have admired this station. The fact that they initiated a donation from the sale of each item is a wonderful gesture which GCR’s supporters will appreciate greatly.

The eight items in the range are finished by hand and include a booking office and canopy, a water column and lamp hut.

David Haarhaus, Bachmann’s Sales and Marketing Manager said: “The Great Central Railway is local to our offices in Leicestershire and has been a great help in researching and developing items from their impressive collection of preserved rolling stock. We at Bachman recognise the tremendous effort and hard work carried out by the railway’s staff to operate this heritage railway situated in the heart of England.

We are therefore keen to produce a model of their popular Rothley station.”

The collection will be launched at the Great Central Railway’s Mail by Rail gala on July 23 and 24. Items will be available to purchase following July’s launch.

THE ROTHLEY POST

MAY 2011

Lions’ special event ROTHLEY & Soar Valley Lions’ Club held its 34th Anniversary Charter event on Saturday April 9 at Birstall Golf Club.

Lion President Joan Arnold introduced her special guests, District Governor Lion Ajit Virdi and his wife Kulwant.

Joan was delighted to continue the tradition of all Lions Clubs in the District to support the chosen charity of the wife of the District Governor and presented a cheque for £500 for Diabetes UK. Other distinguished guests included Adrian Walker, Senior Fund Raiser of

Pic: Joan Arnold with Adrian Walker

LOROS and Ruth Wilkinson and Tom Adcock, of Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance. Both charities were presented with cheques for £500 and £150 was donated to Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Bulbs & rock gardens THURCASTON AND Cropston Gardening Club’s speaker in February was Richard Yeates.

His illustrated talk on ‘Bulbs Through a rock garden was built at Birmingham the Year’ reminded us of the spring deBotanical Gardens (with 500 tons of lights appearing in our gardens now. He millstone grit from Derbyshire) but with drew on his vast experience as a gardenmasses of plants. Indeed, this was known er to give tips, advice and personal reflec- more as an alpine garden – for alpine tions of the bulbs he mentioned. plants. In 1923, a rock garden was first For example, snowdrops are wonderexhibited at the Chelsea Flower show. ful at this time of year and a good display Why not join this friendly and welcomcan be gained from the common snowing group. The next meetings are: drops which are affordable. However, Wednesday May 11 ‘Fuchsias’ by Malcolm there are now approximately 400 to 500 Beerman and Wednesday June 8 – varieties of snowdrop and some are very evening garden visit. expensive. One variety was sold on eBay Visitors are most welcome (£3 per for £356! visit) as are new members (£12 per Snowdrops should be divided every annum) – whether as an experienced two to three years to keep them at their gardener or a beginner. best, whereas aconites self seed and Contact Dave Haddon – 0116 235 don’t like to be disturbed. Many garden9758 for more details or just come along ers are disappointed with irises, and to a meeting.

From Thurcaston & Cropston Gardening Club indeed if planted twice their depth, they will give a show in their first year and probably not come up again. However, if planted deeper, at about 5 to 6 inches and ideally in full sun, they will come up year after year.

The talk was full of such interesting THE ROTHLEY POST is now published and useful snippets and club members were grateful to Richard for standing in in colour and at a new size. at short notice.

Jerry Jackson, Editor of The Rothley The March meeting was led by Vic Post said: “I hope readers will enjoy Aspland on ‘The History of Rock Gardens’. the new look Rothley Post. The changVic, an expert on rock gardens, enteres have been made so we can continue to attract advertising and compete in a tained members with an interesting and competitive market place.” knowledgeable talk.

He added: “The Rothley Post welRock gardens are not a new idea – comes contributions from readers. You they were written about as early as 1542 can send us details of a community and various books were published over a event such as a rummage sale, fete or long period. During the 1800s, rock coffee morning for free publication on gardens were developed on a grand scale. our ‘Noticeboard’ page. Or send items Indeed, no stately home was considered of news. We’re interested in everything complete without one. Rock gardens club and society news, prize winners, were constructed to represent alpine charity events, church news, complaints, scenery and plants were brought in from praise, new projects, new facilities, Switzerland and other countries. In one trips, sport, crime, anything that conlavish rock garden, 10,000 tons of rock cerns or interests you. was imported into a garden and up to “Send us a letter for our letters page, 3000 different types of alpine plants were we welcome letters on any issue, local grown. For stately homes of more modest or national, or send photos - we particmeans, fake rock was developed from ularly welcome old photographs giving concrete so that the fashion for a rock an insight into local history.” garden could still be enjoyed.

Sister papers The Birstall Post and During these days of lavish rock garthe Mountsorrel Post are also in colour dens, much of the emphasis was on the and the same format as The Rothley construction of the rocks and books Post. were published explaining what to do – editor@birstallpost.co.uk and what to avoid! However, in the 1870s

Rothley Post changes

Maypole dancers CHILDREN AT Richard Hill CE Primary School, Thurcaston were treated to a lesson in Maypole Dancing.

Experts in traditional folk dancing visited the school to teach them all about traditional English dancing.

The children danced around a maypole and learned about the traditions linked to the dance.

THE ROTHLEY POST

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10 THE ROTHLEY POST

MAY 2011

Local elections History society news VOTERS ACROSS England will go to the polls on May 5 in the local council elections.

In Rothley, Thurcaston and Cropston, voters will have the opportunity to elect their Charnwood Borough Councillors.

Local elections are held every four years. Before the election, all sitting councillors stand down. If they wish to be returned to office, they must be nominated. If there are more nominations than there are vacancies on the council, an election is required.

In Rothley, Thurcaston and Cropston a Parish Council election is not required as the number of nominations did not exceed the number of va-

At the Borough Council there is one ward for Rothley, Thurcaston and Cropston: Rothley & Thurcaston Ward.

This wad is represented by

cancies on the council. Those nominated will be returned as councillors uncontested.

The candidates are: • Bye, Jamie (UKIP); Osborne, Peter (Con); Richardson, Joanna (Lab); Wise, Diane (Con); Young, David (Lab) Charnwood Borough Council is a District Council. It is responsible for environmental health, council housing, leisure and recreational facilities, local planning, waste collection and electoral registration.

Charnwood has 52 councillors in 28 wards. The current political make up of the Council is: • Con 32, Lab 13, Lib Dem 5, BNP 1, Independent 1

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two councillors, so voters can put an X next to two names on the ballot paper.

County Council Elections are not held this year – their next election is in May 2013.

On May 5, voters will also be asked whether they want to keep the first past the post system for electing Westminster Parliament MPs, or switch to the Alternative Vote system.

Visit gardens in the Ambergate, Castlegate Avenue, Wellgate Avenue area of Birstall Birstall Methodist Church’s

GARDEN TRAIL Saturday and Sunday 11th and 12th June 2011 2.00pm – 5.30pm Adults £3.00 in advance (obtainable from local retailers or telephone 0116 2677576) £3.50 on the day Accompanied children (16 & under) free

Garden Tombola, Plant Stall, Children’s Treasure Hunt Refreshments, Ices, Raffle In aid of the Leprosy Charity ‘Promise Nepal’ and Church Funds

WE WERE delighted to see our speaker, Trevor Parr, in February, who arrived dressed as an Apothecary of the 17th century. He greeted us in the traditional manner – God Hold Your Health.

The Apothecary's equipment included an axe and a saw for chopping off legs and arms, but this could take half an hour to succeed. An iron, heated to red hot, which stopped bleeding. A hammer for knocking out aching teeth, and scissors for cutting out boils. Alcohol helped, as it lowers the blood pressure, but nevertheless a dreadful thought! Oh! Am I glad that we have better equipment and anaesthetics in the 21st century.

A final thought on this most interesting lecture was that an apothecary, whether he cured or not, could earn a vast amount of money – perhaps £5,000,000. One apothecary in the 17th century had 17 houses and an estate of 30,000 acres. Perhaps one should think of them as the drug barons of an earlier age.

For our March meeting, our thanks to go Peter Barratt, who came to tell us of his great grandmother, Alice Hawkins,

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our local Suffragette.

Alice's father was a journeyman shoemaker. Alice was born in 1863 in Stafford. Her father moved to Leicester in her early years. She left school at the age of 13 and went to work as a shoe machinist at Equity Shoes Ltd, in Western Road, Leicester.

Equity Shoes Ltd was started in 1886 by a group of disenchanted employees of another shoe manufacturer in Leicester.

Its original name was The Leicester Co-operative Boot and Shoe Manufacturing Society. However, in the early 1900's its name changed to Equity Shoes Ltd. Alice was drawn to the work ethic of this factory as it was founded on equality of opportunity and rewards for everyone, both males and females, without class distinctions. The company continued throughout its history with the same ethics of equality. Thus it continued up to its liquidation in 2009. At one time there were over 50 shoe factories in the county, are there any left?

Alice's husband, Alfred, was a great support. They were both activists trying to improve working conditions for women, who were generally made to feel like second class citizens – disillusioned, and on the whole the attitude was: “that a women's place was in the home”. How they must have struggled to make them-

selves noticed and heard.

During the 1st World War, women were taking men's place in factories and although of vital importance and doing the same jobs, women were never paid the same wages as men. This trend continued after the end of the war. Men were paid 30/- (£1.50p) per week whereas women were only paid 10/(50p) per week.

Alice Hawkins went to London to the big protest meeting. They were charged at by horses, and 27 women, including Alice, went to Holloway Prison for fourteen days. On the day of their release from Holloway, a large number of women waited outside, they had hired a band and marched into Central London for breakfast. Alice Hawkins was sent to prison five times, many of the women went on hunger strike, and some even died from being force fed.

We heard of women tying themselves to railings in London, and bricks being thrown through windows, one woman even threw herself in front of a horse at the races.

We were told that the Leicestershire Suffragettes tried to set fire to a railway station, but could not get it to ignite. A young Suffragette came up from London to demonstrate how it should be successfully done. They dug up the Oadby Gold Course. I bet the golfers, predominately men, didn't like that!

Peter's family has an immense collection of memorabilia. Peter showed us some of his collection, including a photograph of the shop, opened by the Leicestershire Suffragettes in Bowling Green Street, with the words: “Votes for Women” on the façade.

Alice Hawkins has her own Blue Plaque, which is still displayed on the walls of the Equity Shoe Factory. Do go and have a look.

The Suffragettes had their own distinctive form of dress (not a uniform but a colour code) of Purple (dignity), White (purity) and Green (hope). Their banners and placards carried the same colours.

We were so pleased to see Melanie and Megan arrive in their Suffragette costumes and carrying a banner, and the placard with the famous words of the Suffragette movement: “ALWAYS AND ALWAYS FACING TOWARDS THE LIGHT” A final thought: Alice Hawkins said to her children “YOU MUST USE YOUR VOTE, WE SUFFERED FOR IT”.

On May 18 we are looking forward to hearing Tim Upson Smith's update on the findings of the excavation at The Grange. On June 15 we shall welcome Margaret Hutton telling us about her life as a Tiller Girl. As usual at The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley, doors are open at 7pm when the talks will start at 7.30pm From Noreen Wilson, Rothley History Society

IN FEBRUARY Thurcaston and Cropston Local History Society were wonderfully entertained by Trevor Parr, a member of the Sealed Knot Association.

Trevor was dressed in authentic costume and gave us a thoroughly informative and amusing insight into the role of

THE ROTHLEY POST

MAY 2011 11

Author’s

new book

CROPSTON TRAVEL writer Valerie Astill, has recently released her second book ‘Temples and Tacos’ about a trip to Mexico, Guatemala and Belize.

“While learning about ancient civilisations was fascinating, it was the unexpected events that made the holiday so memorable” she said.

“My husband David and I have always loved exploring new places and I like to keep a diary and photographic record of our holidays. When we were describing all the things that happened on a particularly eventful trip to Brazil, Peru and Bolivia, several people said to us ‘You ought to write a book’ and once I had retired and had more time to spare, I decided to give it a try. I found that the diary and photographs brought back many unrecorded

Pic: Valerie Astill at the book launch with husband David

memories and I enjoyed the process of reliving the holiday” she said.

Having drafted out her first manuscript, Valerie attended a creative writing class at the Adult Education Centre in Leicester and then, as a result of constructive criticism, completely rewrote it.

The revised manuscript was accepted by Pneuma Springs Publishing and the first book ‘From Coconuts to Condors’ was released in 2009.

‘Marketing the book turned out to be quite a challenge but David is a very good salesman” said Valerie. “Once I found out that people were prepared to buy my work, this gave me the confidence to write my second book ‘Temples and Tacos’ which was accepted by the same publishers.”

She added: “People we met kept asking whether I had my own website so, earlier this year, I found out how to do basic programming and, with some assistance, created a website on www.valerieastill.co.uk. This gives more information about both my books and I shall be able to add to it, if and when any more are published.”

GCR metal thefts POLICE ARE appealing for help from the public after thousands of pounds worth of copper piping was stolen from Rothley.

The incident took place some time between 12noon on Saturday January 29 and 9am on Wednesday February 2 at Swithland Sidings, Great Central Railway, Rothley. A large quantity of copper piping was stolen from underneath some vintage railway carriages.

PC Stephen Rhodes is investigating the incident. He said: “Apart from the fact that thousands of pounds worth of copper piping has been stolen the piping was taken off carriages which are in use at the station and this was an extremely dangerous act. The carriages could have been used unknowingly after the theft and may have resulted in someone being

hurt due to the piping being missing.

Luckily the theft was discovered before that could happen.

“We are extremely keen to trace the stolen piping and catch the perpetrators, if you know someone who has acquired some copper piping or you have heard rumours about who may be responsible then please contact the police, Any calls received will be treated in confidence.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact PC 544 Stephen Rhodes on 0116 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer’s identification number 0544.

d

DE MONTFORT ai

co

r

land and parts of Derbyshire.

It has to be emphasised that, in the mid-17th Century, there were no curative treatments for the majority of ailments and the Apothecary was a cross between a variety of roles, such as chemist, herbalist, doctor, medicine man, etc. and, in the opinion of some, could be regarded as practising the ‘black arts’. For this reason, he would wear a Crucifix to offer himself divine protection.

Generally, the Apothecary was a rich man, with wealth accumulated through the often exorbitant charges he made for the “remedies” he supplied. Although not a nobleman by birth, Trevor’s Apothecary wore rich clothing, signifying his status as a gentleman.

However, at that time, attention to personal hygiene was virtually non-existent!

Where health was concerned, there was a clear defining line between the rich who could afford to pay for treatments and the poor who could not.

Child mortality was high and life expectancy for women was 23 years and for men, 29 years, although interestingly, those who miraculously managed to survive past 40 years might live to their 70’s or even 80’s!

During the Civil War the Apothecary was attached to a foot regiment. His food and clothing were provided by the army and he was responsible for the soldiers’ general health. He would have a Patron for protection from anyone dissatisfied with his medicines, many of which were ineffective or downright dangerous! For example, arsenic was used to kill off ‘stomach bugs’. Stomach problems were rife because of poor food quality – powdered charcoal was one remedy and a particularly powerful purge was a mixture of gunpowder and molasses! Fennel seeds were good for the digestion.

Salt was relatively cheap and commonly used to preserve provisions, but during the Civil War, its availability became scarce and its cost increased because of the diversion of manpower to the war effort and therefore lack of labour to harvest it.

The list of other remedies used at the time included • English mustard seed – to make poultices as well as for flavouring food.

• Peppercorns – also for poultices (imported overland from the Middle East, so very expensive).

• Juniper berries – tied in a handkerchief and carried to ward off evil spirits.

• Rosemary (dried) – fresh and cooling for headaches, and for food flavouring.

• Bay leaves – infused to make bay tea – good for depression.

• Marjoram – soak leaves in hot water – drink liquid to treat colic.

• Sage – boil the leaves – resulting drink effective for colds.

• Sap from St. John’s wort (hypericum) shrub – had antiseptic properties for wounds.

• Cloves – whole to freshen the breath and oil of cloves for toothache.

• Nutmeg – from Far East, so very expensive – thought to ward off the plague • Cinnamon sticks – from Near East – also thought to ward off the plague.

• Lead paste – to whiten the complexion (ladies’ cosmetics).

• Belladonna – drops in the eyes to dilate the pupils and produce so-called seductive ‘come hither’ look (again, used by the ladies).

• Mercury preparations – for men’s ailments.

In times of war, with horrendous injuries to tend, operations such as bone setting and amputations were all done (usually by the Barber Surgeon) without anaesthetic or pain relief – gangrene was the scourge of all such procedures and of all injuries with open wounds. When there was no hope of recovery, the Apothecary’s remedy was, in effect, a kind of euthanasia in the form of a mixture of poisons known as ‘God’s Grace’, to be administered to the poor, unfortunate patient to relieve their suffering and hasten their departure from this life to the next.

In conclusion, life was considered to be cheap and the life hereafter held much promise.

Our March meeting had to be cancelled in consequence of a burglary at All Saints’ Church and Harrison Room, which was only discovered on the afternoon of the15th and disrupted several meetings due to take place during that week. Our sincere apologies go to our speaker, Shirley Aucott, for having to cancel her talk at such short notice and to everyone who had hoped to attend.

There is no meeting in April, so we next meet on Tuesday May 17 when Professor Christopher Dyer’s topic will be ‘The Victoria County History of Leicestershire : a new beginning’. Time – 7.30pm. Venue – the Harrison Room, All Saints’ Church.

From Jennifer Kennington

lt

an Apothecary in 1643, at the time of the English Civil War. Trevor’s character was based on a man called Johannes Beresford who was born in 1581 in the Low Countries (or Netherlands). Aged 14 years, he went to Leiden University from where he qualified at the age of 16, having achieved multi-lingual skills. He was apprenticed for 8 years in his father’s Apothecary business, a position without pay, to achieve the experience and knowledge to equip him to practise his profession.

On completion of his apprenticeship, he was subsequently able to move to England where his area of work covered Northamptonshire, Leicestershire, Rut-

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12 THE ROTHLEY POST

MAY 2011

Latimer Imps Players need secretary

THE LATIMER Players next production is ‘Love Begins at 50’ a fast moving farce by Raymond Hopkins.

Pic: The Grange apartments, Fowke Street, Rothley

Grange apartments HOUSEBUILDERS WILLIAM Davis Homes are offering two bedroom apartments at The Grange on Fowke Street for £132,000 to first time buyers.

Their ‘You Can Buy’ scheme requires the buyer to have a 5 per cent deposit, with William Davis providing an interest free loan for the remaining 15 per cent. The buyer retains 100 per cent ownership of the property.

Further options are available – contact sales consultant Wendy Parry on 0116 2301908

Planning applications P/11/0666/2: Park Farm, 81 Town Green Street, Rothley – erection of 5 dwellings, with associated parking, garaging and access. Conversion of farm buildings to 2 dwellings P/11/067l/12: 30 The Ridings, Rothley - erection of single storey extension to rear of dwelling P/11/0710/2: 987 Loughborough Road, Rothley – use of agricultural land for parking of commercial and domestic vehicles P/11/0458/2: 23 Ridgeway, Rothley – erection of conservatory to rear of

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A LOCAL football club is at risk of closing if it can’t fill a key position.

Andrew Whittaker, a spokesman for Rothley Imps Juniors, said: “The football club that provides so much opportunity for boys and girls in the village may have to stop playing in league competitions due to lack of a club secretary.

This could result in the club losing players and even closing altogether.”

He added: “The current Secretary, Tariq Saeed is standing down after many years excellent service. This is a key role to fill at a critical time in the club’s development, which includes applying for FA Charter status and negotiating for new facilities and significant funding. It runs teams from Under 7’s to Under 18’s and provides excellent opportunities for youngsters to get involved in organised football. This year, the Under 11’s have reached the final of the County Cup. It would be tragic if the club could not continue to play league and cup football.

“Many parents and volunteers run the teams. However, it is really important to have a dedicated secretary to be the focal point between the club, the League and the County FA. Time commitments vary, however, typically it requires about two hours a week with occasional attendance at League and County FA meetings.

The role makes a huge contribution to the village community, and offers the opportunity to see and influence football affairs at the County level. A new secretary will be well supported by the current treasurer, welfare officer and the coaches of the individual teams.”

Anyone interested in taking the role should contact Club Chairman, Malc Leake on 07973 825091. Or email him at malcolm.leake@leicester.gov.uk

Anita and Clive Debanks have been married for 28 years and have led an uneventful life. However, all that is about to change, as preparations are underway to celebrate Clive’s 50th birthday.

Clive feels that life is slipping him by and has a yearning for one last fling. To this end, he chooses three prospective partners from the Lonely Hearts column in the local newspaper.

By some strange twist, the same paper is offering a free Caribbean cruise as a prize in a competition to find the perfect married couple. Anita enters the competition and keeps it a secret from Clive.

From that point onwards things get a bit complicated, to say the least.

This production takes place in the Memorial Hall, Anstey Lane, Thurcaston at 7.30pm on May 26, 27 and 28.

Tickets are available from Christine Deavin. Tel: 01827 880834. email: christinedeavin@btinternet.com

Swim lessons SWIMMING LESSONS for adults are available at the Soar Valley Leisure Centre in Mountsorrel.

The courses are suitable for mixed abilities, including absolute beginners.

Sandra Brown from Wymeswold had been terrified of water, only had 10cm of water in the bath and would not put her face in water. She had never been in a swimming pool before starting the lessons.

The swimming teachers built her confidence and ability and she can now swim the breaststroke.

Courses at the SVLC are held on Mondays 11am-12noon, Wednesdays 1112noon and Fridays 8.30-9.30pm. Courses are for 9 or 10 weeks and cost £5.25 per session . Next term begins on May 4.

Details www.charnwoodleisure.com/soar_valley Tel: 0116 237 5267

Charnwood grants COMMUNITY GROUPS are being urged to bid for a slice of grant cash.

Charnwood Borough Council has two grant schemes for community and voluntary sector groups across the whole of the Borough, including Loughborough.

There is a budget of £6000 for Community Engagement Grants – with maximum Advertise in

THE ROTHLEY POST 47 x 59mm £20 • 47 x 120mm £36 98 x 59mm £36 • 98 x 120mm £60

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grants of £500 paid out – and a budget of £48,500 for Community Development Grants which can offer maximum grants of £15,000.

Simon Jackson, Charnwood Borough Council’s strategic director for corporate services, said: “In 2010/11 Charnwood Borough Council handed out £57,200 to community groups who all help make the Borough a better place to live We don’t want any worthy group or organisation to miss out on this opportunity so make sure you get in touch and find out how to make an application.”

Local charity Twenty Twenty received a £7,500 grant from the council to help two schemes including the Charnwood Mentoring Scheme which helps tackle antisocial behaviour in the Borough.

For more information, including guidance and application forms, visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/pages.charnwoo dgrants, call 01509 634785 or email grants@charnwood.gov.uk

THE ROTHLEY POST

AS THE holiday season will soon be approaching some of us might stop and ponder on how many children will actually get a holiday by the sea THURCASTON & CROPSTON WI’s this year.

March speaker was Mr Neil Crutchley.

At least some of those children may a Better known as Leicester Mercury’s have chance if they live in Leicestershire or Rutland thanks to the unending, ‘Mr Leicester’, he gave a talk on enthusiastic efforts of a hardworking some of the city’s most well known group of people determined to carry on characters. the principles of one very dedicated He began by telling us about four lady and her husband, Sir John Rollesmen who have had a great influence on the city. They were all wealthy busi- ton who lived at Glen Parva Manor in the early 1890’s. nessmen, radical thinkers and held The members of Rothley WI heard strong religious convictions. All in from Stephanie Brown who works for their time also held the office of Lord the Leicester Childrens Holiday Home Mayor of Leicester. charity, that Lady Rolleston had seen The architect Arthur Wakerley demany youngsters having to sell newspasigned many of the city’s famous build- pers on the streets of Leicester to bring ings including the Turkey Café in in a much needed penny or two and Granby St. He was the youngest Lord this determined her to open a clubroom Mayor, taking office aged 34. for the children in Newarke Street, Sir Jonathan North founded FreeLeicester. She also arranged occasional man Hardy & Willis and was chairman visits to the Manor, arranging entertainof the Education Department for thirty ment and sporting events. years. As Lord Mayor during the First Eventually The Rollestons felt that World War he was passionate about with the help of some of their influential helping war victims. He was responsifriends and associates they could provide a campsite by the sea, to give those ble for the Oadby Memorial Homes children a much needed holiday by the and the Lutyens War Memorial on sea. Land was bought by the sand dunes, Victoria Park. He was also one of the founders of The University of Leicester. to the north of Mablethorpe and the camp was set up in tents for the boys Thomas Fielding Johnson was a worsted manufacturer who cared about with a later addition of a wooden construction for girls. A charity set up and the health of the city and helped build registered in 1897 with Sir John as the Fielding Johnson Hospital.

President and Lady Rolleston as treasurFinally, he spoke about Leicester’s er, was later backed by local dignitaries first Jewish Lord Mayor, Sir Israel Hart and businessmen who soon provided who donated the fountain in the Town enough funding by 1930 to build a Hall Square and established the city’s more permanent structure which is still first branch free Library. Furthermore in use today. There are four dormitories, Arthur Wakerley was commissioned by two for boys and two for girls with him to build the city’s Synagogue. bathing facilities, a large dining room Other notables mentioned included with kitchen area and an administration William Gardiner who befriended and area for staff. There is a purpose built supported Beethoven and Charles Jenpathway allowing direct access onto the ner of Gospall Hall, a friend of Handel. beach.

The first performance of the Messiah is The Leicester Children’s Holiday said to have its origins in Leicestershire. Home was opened in 1936 and up to In April Mrs Penny Hodgson gave an the present day has provided a weeks interesting and informative talk on break for at least 50,000 children. Until Beijing. more recent years the Home, as it was Penny and her husband lived and known, was for many years open from worked in the Chinese capital for two May to September with children being years. She had taken on the role of ferried weekly by coach to and from setting up the library in the newly Jewry Wall Leicester and even as late as opened Harrow School there. The the early 1960s some children were school is for children from the interna- overawed by their first view of the sea.

Today, better known as a Holiday Centre, tional community, whose parents live the times for the children to have a and work in the city. Chinese children holiday is governed by the schools sumare not allowed to attend. mer term times and the number of beds Beijing life offered a huge of range of restaurants, with every cuisine in the per dormitory are also reduced but none the less it offers the opportunity world seemingly represented. Penny for a holiday that perhaps some chilalso described the many tourist sites dren would not otherwise come to exthey visited: the Forbidden City, the pect. The facilities are offered as a Terracotta Army and the Panda Centre conference or corporate event centre were just a few of the during term time. Guest speaker Stephplaces mentioned. anie Brown was thanked for her enthusiLiving in such a densely populated astic presentation and for the display of city, the impossible bureaucracy and the many photographs she had provided not being able to read an English newsto illustrate her enjoyable talk. paper were some of the more negative The competition for March was a aspects of daily life. However, this once childhood photograph and won by Juanin a lifetime experience was something ita Needham. As always we meet the Penny and her husband would not first Wednesday each month, 2 – have wanted to miss.

4.30pm Our next meeting will be held on Rothley Centre Mountsorrel Lane Thursday May 5 at the Memorial Hall, Rothley.

Anstey Lane, Thurcaston when ResoluGuests and non members are always tions will be discussed. very welcome.

From Thurcaston & Cropston From Maureen Bulmer, Rothley WI WI

MAY 2011 13

WI news

Rothley road race THE ANNUAL 10k Rothley Road race takes place this year on June 21.

Serious and not-so-serious runners from Leicestershire and the surrounding counties are invited to take part in the race around Rothley village, which starts at 7.15pm.

There are valuable team and individual prizes to be won in a range of categories - including juniors and veterans - as well as by the overall male and female winners and runners-up.

“This popular fun event raises money which is donated to our local favourite charities,” explained Club President, Joan Arnold. “We have a large core of regular runners who would not miss it and give us valuable support - but new entrants are always welcome.”

For the first time this year, entry forms can be downloaded from the website www.rothley10k.com and the event will be accurately recorded by FR Systems using chip timing. Forms will also be available, after May 1, from the

Small Ads Small ads are 25p for the first 16 words. 17-32 words: 50p. Enclosing payment, post your ad to us or hand it in (inside an envelope) at Rothley library or Rothley Post Office on Woodgate.

Trade/business rates for small ads are 25p a word. You are liable for the trade/business rate if you are offering a service for which you are asking for payment, or if you are advertising new goods for sale. All text will be printed bold. Box outline £1 extra. Max 50 words.

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Leicester Mercury News shop or Rothley Fisheries, or Running Fox Sports Shop, Loughborough. Further information available from event co-ordinator, Colin Favell (colinfavell@live.com). Everyone is urged to come along on the night to take part or to cheer on the runners.

Tuck for troops THE LEICESTER Branch of the Royal Society of St George, England’s premier patriotic society, voted at their February meeting to join in the Rothley British Legion scheme to send tuck boxes to the service boys and girls in Afghanistan. £150 was pledged and Budgens Store in Mountsorrel provided all of the contents at cost price. The society is non-nationalistic and is open to anyone whether English or otherwise, who treasure and support the English way of life and who show respect for our traditions. For more information call the secretary on 0116 286 3656 From Norman Pratt

In-work benefits NINE OUT of ten of low earners are totally unaware of the existence of in-work benefits.

Research by the Charity Turn2us also found that two thirds of those living on low incomes who may be entitled to in-work benefits are not claiming them.

To find out if you are entitled to welfare benefits and tax credits visit www.turn2us.org.uk

14 THE ROTHLEY POST

MAY 2011

GCR plans to bridge the gap THE GREAT Central Railway are bidding for £2.5million of government money to extend their line north from Loughborough.

Reinstating 500 metres of missing railway at Loughborough will create an unbroken 18 mile route, connecting the 8 mile long Leicester North to Loughborough Central section to the 9 mile Loughborough to Ruddington track.

The Great Central Railway Development Company (GCRD) say the project would stimulate growth in regional rail freight and passenger traffic, expand the GCR’s existing tourist, rail freight and rail industry trials, create 200 new jobs and attract an extra 60,000 visitors a year.

GCR Development Chairman Nigel Harris said: “The bid will allow us to make a physical start on work and employ key members of the project team.

Crucially it will also lever in £12.5million pounds of private investment to complete the project. We’ve spent a long time putting together the bid with local authorities and stakehold-

ers and now we have a concrete proposal which will bring benefits right across the local economy. GCRD is in discussion with a number of private sector companies which have pledged significant financial and other support for GCR reunification.”

He added: “Over the last 40 years GCR volunteers have created two successful, independent railways from derelict land, almost entirely from their own resources and with no demands on the public purse. It’s perfect ‘Big Society’ at work.

“Now we’re asking for relatively modest assistance to join up those two railways to create something unique and even more successful. A £2.5m RGF award brings in five times the value from the private sector. The fund would trigger the investment to give the East Midlands this unique independent main line railway with benefits starting to be felt ahead of the next General Election.”

Digital switchover OLD ANALOGUE television sets will stop working this August, the date of the digital switchover.

The BBC2 channel will be switched off first, on August 17, with the remaining channels switched off on August 31.

Your old analogue TV won’t work any longer and you will have a number of options: • Buy a set top box to get Freeview using your existing aerial. Boxes cost from £20. There are no ongoing charges.

• Pay around £150 for a Sky Freesat service. This involves having a satellite dish fitted. There are no ongoing charges.

• Subscribe to a cable TV service • Subscribe to a satellite service If your TV currently has six or more channels it is probably already digital and you won’t have to do anything, except retune it.

Leicestershire Trading Standards are advising people to go to reputable suppliers when seeking advice. A spokesman said: “Remember there is no such thing as a digital aerial. Most existing aerials will work with a set top box. If you need a new aerial, expect to pay between £60 and £180. Choose a registered digital installer displaying the “digital ‘tick’” logo.

A Government scheme has been set up to help those aged over 75 and people on some benefits to get equipment installed, either for free or a nominal charge. For details of the Switchover Help Scheme call free on 0800 40 85 900 or go to www.helpscheme.co.uk.

Noticeboard all details printed free Celebrating 20 years of HATS Highcliffe Amateur Theatrical Society invites you to our forthcoming production of

Play On A comedy drama by Rick Abbot At Highcliffe Primary School, Greengate Lane, Birstall on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, May 19th, 20th, 21st at 7.30pm Tickets £6 adult, £5 concess (disc for group bookings) Available from Box Office 0116 2128757 or 07757854719 Email: hatsbirstall1@hotmail.co.uk Don’t Delay Book Today!

•••

Coffee Morning At Rothley Methodist Church, Howe Lane Every Tuesday morning, 10-11.30am come rain or shine Friendly atmosphere, everyone welcome Tea & Coffee and biscuits or toasted tea cake Proceeds for the Methodist Church •••

Watermead Challenge 2011 A run through Watermead Country Park After the success of last year’s first Watermead Challenge, Wreake Valley Rotary Club will be holding the event again this year on Wednesday July 13, 7pm at Watermead Country Park There will be both a 5 mile and a 3 mile run.

Full details available shortly on the club’s website: www.wreakevalleyrotary.co.uk All profits from entry fees will be distributed amongst local charitable causes If you know of a local cause that would be a suitable beneficiary please contact us at wvrotaryclub@gmail.com so that we can consider it in detail, many thanks ••• Syston Methodist Church presents Ian Tracey

Organ Spectacular Professor Ian Tracey, Organist Titu-

laire at Liverpool Anglican Cathedral is coming to give one of his spectacular Organ Recitals at Syston Methodist Church on the recently installed Makin Westmorland Custom Digital Organ Thursday May 19 at 7.30pm Book now to ensure you get a seat!

Entry by ticket only – price £7 Tickets available from Trevor Solway on 2606457 or trevorsolway@gmail.com •••

Wreake Athletics Academy for 7-12 year olds Learn to run, jump and throw like an Olympic athlete Held at Syston Rugby Club For more information: john.skevington@hotmail.com www.wreakerunners.co.uk •••

Tea and Cakes At St Leonard’s Church, Main Street, Swithland LE12 8TJ Saturday & Sunday May 7 & 8 from 2-4.30 pm Second hand books for sale Donations in aid of church funds •••

May Summer Carnival Sunday May 15 Organised by Loughborough Lions Southfields Park, Loughborough 12.30-4.30pm £5 family ticket, £2 adults, £1 concessions Arena events include: Top Lodge Dancing Dog Team, Leics & Rutland Pipe Band, Dako Flying Angel's Gymnasts, ‘Owls to Behold’, & Armstrong’s Fair Bigger better family amusements, Kit Car Stand, Charity Stalls, Craft Stalls Refreshments and much much more!

Due to space restrictions there will NOT be a car boot This is a great family day out raising funds for LOROS and other Lions Charities For more information contact Ann 01509 232422 •••

Riverside United under 13s 2011/12 Players Wanted Riverside are looking for new players for our 11 a side team and 9 a side

WILSON WINDOWS, established in 1989, are a local family run business living in Birstall whose excellent reputation is based firmly on the superb quality of their products, outstanding customer service and attention to detail.

With a showroom alongside the factory in Loughborough, customers can view the high quality of all windows, doors and conservatories, watch them being manufactured and view the huge choice of styles suitable for installation in both modern and traditional properties

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THE ROTHLEY POST

team for next season. If you’re sick of being on the bench or just fancy a change we may be the club for you?

Next season we age aiming to be challenging at the top or our Division so if you want the challenge come and join our friendly group of lads We train Thursdays at Wreake Valley College, Syston, 6-7.30pm, most Saturdays Training is aimed at improving players individually and as a team All coaches are Level 1 Qualified and CRB checked If you’re interested in playing and enjoying your football at a friendly club please don’t hesitate to contact Chris 07742009343 email riversideunited1@btinternet.com Or just come along ••• Wanlip Church and Community Centre

May Fair Saturday May 21 10am – 1pm Stalls include: plants, cakes, craft, books, bric a brac, tombola and raffle Light refreshments available Please come along to help continue with the ongoing excellent refurbishment of this facility •••

Midlands Co-operative Sports & Social Club, Birstall Road £10 per person Tickets from Loughborough & Co-operative Funeral Service, The Crossways •••

Birstall BAGS Annual 3 mile/5k run/walk around Watermead Country Park Sunday May 22 10am registration for 11am start A great family fun day out for all ages, starting on Whiles Lane river bank, Birstall Finishing at Birstall United Club House, Meadow Lane Cakes/bbq/sweets/games Medals for fastest boys/girls/men/women Penalty shoot-out/bouncy castle Licensed bar/tea & coffee Thank you for your support www.birstallbags.co.uk ••• Film Presentations from Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council ‘The King’s Speech’ Friday May 13 (118 mins)

Charnwood Conservative Association

Spring Fair Saturday May 14 The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley 10am till noon Rt Hon Stephen Dorrell MP will be attending Raffle, tombola, books, plants, produce stalls, games, bric a brac etc ••• All Saints’ Church, Thurcaston with Cropston Anstey Lane, Thurcaston

Annual Grand Musical Evening

Starring Colin Firth and Helena Bonham Carter, this film has won an outstanding four Oscar awards. It is the story of George VI, his impromptu ascension to the throne and the speech therapist who helped the unsure monarch to become worthy of his unparalleled responsibility.

‘Tamara Drewe’ Friday June 10 (111 minutes)

Saturday May 7, 6.30pm at All Saints’ Church Tickets adults £6, children £2 Inc light refreshments, glass of wine or soft drink Tickets available on the night •••

is holding Open Days on Wednesday, June 8, 5.30-9pm And Sunday June 12, 9.30am-1pm At Co-op ~Sports & Social Club, Birstall Road Juniors, seniors and families welcome •••

An Evening with Elvis Darren Turner – Elvis Tribute Performer Buffet-Bar-Disco Saturday June 25 Newtown Linford Village Hall 7.30-12pm Tickets £15 Call Helen on 0116 237 4865 for tickets In support of Holly Whittaker’s charity climb of Mount Kilimanjaro for Childreach International ••• Leicester Host Lions Club invites everyone to a

Bluebell Walk MEARS CARE URGENTLY REQUIRED

0116 2885688

3 services every Sunday, all welcome 9am Service of Holy Communion, without music but including short sermon 10.30am Morning Service with all age children’s activities 6.30pm Evening Worship •••

Live entertainment, Latin American buffet, grand auction Raising funds for Motor Neurone Disease Association Saturday June 4, 7.30pm

Birstall Watermead Tennis Club

We are currently working in partnership with Leicestershire County Council to provide home care services in Loughborough & surrounding villages.

We require full & part time community care workers. No exp necessary as full training given. Free uniforms provided.

Car drivers essential.

Please call Mears Care on

Rothley Parish Church

South American Charity Gala Evening

of rural England.

Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall. Starting at 7.30pm, tickets cost £4.50 and concessions are £4. The price includes refreshments and a lucky prize draw.

Advance tickets can be purchased via the parish office, 0116 2367626 or at the door ••• Serving up a treat in your community!

DAVE HUTCHINGS GENERAL BUILDING & HOME REPAIRS

Our last film before the summer break will be a British comedy, directed by Stephen Frears and starring Gemma Arterton. Once the ‘ugly duckling’ in a Dorset village, Tamara Drewe returns as a surprisingly attractive newspaper journalist. She is fun loving and light hearted and consequently passions run high in this part

Brickwork • Patios Re-pointing Tiling • Plaster Patching • Fencing etc No job too small Friendly Reliable Service Free Quotations • Fully Insured

Tel: 0116 260 7716 Mob: 07770 785400 Email: hutchingsno1@aol.com Website: www.dave-hutchings.com

MAY 2011 15

Come and walk among the glorious bluebells in a woodland setting All the beautiful gardens at 240 Markfield Lane, Markfield Sunday May 1 11am-3.30pm Car parking in grounds Various refreshments all day Books & paintings for sale All proceeds in aid of charities Admission, adults £2 at the gate, children £1 (under 5 free) •••

Rothley Parish Council Annual Meeting May 10, 8pm Rothley Centre There will be an opportunity to raise issues with your local councillors •••

The Latimer Players

‘Love Begins at 50’ a fast moving farce by Raymond Hopkins Memorial Hall, Anstey Lane, Thurcaston On May 26,27 & 28 at 7.30pm Continued on page 16 Advertise in

THE ROTHLEY POST 47 x 59mm £20 • 47 x 120mm £36 98 x 59mm £36 • 98 x 120mm £60 1) Decide what size you want. 2) Send us a sketch of your ad. 3) We design, publish & send you the bill CALL for an advertising rate card, or view online at www.birstallpost.co.uk (prices exclude VAT)

Contact us THE ROTHLEY Post is delighted to receive contributions from residents. You can send us: Details of a community event such as a rummage sale, fete or coffee morning for free publication on our ‘Noticeboard’ page.

Items of news - we’re interested in everything: club and society news, prizewinners, charity events, church news, complaints, praise, new projects, new facilities, trips, sport, crime, anything that concerns or interests you.

A letter for our letters page - we welcome letters on any issue, local or national.

All letters must include the sender’s name and address (though not necessarily for publication).

Photos - we particularly welcome old photographs giving an insight into local history.

Small ads - you can sell items with a classified ad for only 25p!

How you can contact us: Email: editor@birstallpost.co.uk Phone or Fax (0116) 267 4213 Hand in your items at Rothley Library, Birstall Library or Rothley Post Office on Woodgate.

Write to us at The Rothley Post, Longslade College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GH The Rothley Post is an independent newspaper

16 THE ROTHLEY POST

The July issue of The Rothley Post will be published on July 8. The copy deadline is June 24.

MAY 2011

Continued from page 15 Tickets: 01827 880834 christinedeavin@btinternet.com ••• Charnwood Arts

Picnic in the Park Monday May 30, 12noon Queens Park, Granby Street, Loughborough Stalls, street performance, dance, food •••

The Melton Mowbray Heavy Horse Show Sunday June 5 11am to 4pm approx at the Equestrian Centre, Brooksby College, Brooksby, Nr Melton Mowbray LE14 2LJ Free admission – bucket collection for Air Ambulance ••• Raise the Roof for The Stroke Association and The Laura Centre with

Singing for Fun Saturday May 28, 7.45pm St James the Great, Birstall A light hearted musical evening with music ranging from Verdi to Tony Christie and plenty of opportunity for audience participation!

FREE admission – retiring collection •••

Rothley Bowling Club Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley (rear of library) The Bowls Green is now open for play and the club offers a warm welcome to all new members. Alternatively anyone wishing to find out more about the game and ‘have a go’ is invited to join us at our Chummy Evenings which will be held from 5.30pm onwards every Wednesday evening from May 11 onwards. All equipment provided, just need flat soled shoes.

All welcome – young, old, male, female, novices, experienced players.

Further information can be obtained from the Ladies Captain, Mrs Carol Ballantine 0116 2302629 email: cballantine@tiscali.co.uk or the Men’s Captain: John Tebbet 0116 2301464 email: johntebbet@talktalk.net •••

Thurcaston & Cropston

Learn scuba diving TRY SCUBA diving at Birstall Pool with a fully qualified instructor.

Birstall College of Diving (BCD) is owned and operated by Matt Sharp and supported by PADI (the Professional Association of Diving Instructors). Matt is a qualified PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer, and has worked as a diving instructor both in the UK and abroad. In 2009 Matt returned to the UK from working in the Caribbean as an instructor and captain of a commercial diving boat.

Matt said: “On return to the UK I have been working as an independent instructor running courses at Longslade Community College’s Pool and in October 2010 with the co-operation of the College set up one of only a handful of PADI educational facilities in the country offering training in scuba diving to both students and members of the public.”

BCD offers ‘try dives’ in the pool under PADI’s Discover Scuba Diving experience for anyone aged 12 years and upwards. Matt said: “This is aimed at anyone who has not tried scuba diving before and explains the equipment and techniques used

Pic: Diving Instructor Matt Sharp in Birstall Pool followed by a fun session in the pool to There is a growing club side and BCD give you confidence and hopefully ignite organises trips and expeditions both in your interest in this fast growing sport.” the UK and abroad. The dive club is Matt also offers a full range of cours- open to qualified divers from any organies from the PADI Open Water Course to sation. Matt said: “Expeditions planned speciality training including under water for 2011 include the Farne Islands photography, videog- where we hope to photograph the large raphy, wreck diving seal colonies that live on the islands and and Nitrox courses. to Scapa Flow to dive and film the BCD also offers wrecks of the German WWI high seas professional trainfleet.” ing for those wishDiscover Scuba Diving and training ing to change their sessions are held at Birstall Pool on careers for a job in Wednesday evenings with Open Water the recreational courses conducted at Stoney Cove and dive industry and other venues at weekends. become qualified Anyone is welcome to join BCD and Dive Masters. All for booking or further information courses are certiplease contact Matt Sharp on 0771 fied by PADI and 7235158 or email Matt on are recognised bungoair@yahoo.co.uk around the world.

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THE ROTHLEY POST YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Longslade College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GH Editor: Mr Jerry Jackson

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0116 2674213 Correspondence, news etc can be handed in at: Rothley Library, Rothley Post Office or to our office in the Youth Centre, Longslade College, Birstall editor@birstallpost.co.uk

GET A QUOTE FROM US BEFORE YOU BUY YOUR NEXT PAIR OF SPECTACLES Same day service on most plastic lenses Top quality lenses including Varilux, Nikon, Zeiss DESIGNER FRAMES

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Open Gardens Weekend June 25/26, 2-6pm Tickets £4 available on the day, valid for both days Accompanied children & wheelchair users free In aid of Richard Hill School funds www.tcog.uk The next issue of

THE ROTHLEY POST will be published on July 8.

The copy deadline is June 24.

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